Selecting Workshop Material

[Gerard]

Hi all,
Next Saturday and Sunday Bonsai Northwest will be having workshops.

We are lucky to have the Indonesian artist, Robert Steven visiting to conduct workshops and demonstrations. My dilemna is as always what to bring?
I believe that it is not a good time of year for pines and junipers as bark separation can be a concern. Every workshop I have ever done was a pine or juniper. The next problem is to find a project worthy of such an artist.

I have two trees which might make nice projects and would be interested in some feedback (I will take both anyway, one as a backup)

floriad 2009 013.jpg

One possibility a good sized fig originally styled by twisting branches together creating an interesting fused trunk.
This tree was purchased 2 weeks ago at a deceased estate sale and has since been defoliated, it has too many branches and no obvious front.

ponnegranite 002.jpg

The second option is a pommeganite clump, purchased today at the BNW show.

Any suggestions

Thanks
Gerard

[Webos]

I've seen photos of some Roberts' work, some of them windswept, beach cliff, ragged, torn styled trees. I reckon the Pomegranate would suit that style well..I'd go the Pomegranate.

See ya there!

[kcpoole]

I like both very much and the pomegranate will be a challenge. Be interesing to see what he comes up with

Ken

[anttal63]

gezza! as much as that pome clump would be right down his alley, its not ready. it needs to be set up for the future. i think you will achieve more with the fig.

[Gerard]

Thanks guys for your comments,
I wholeheartedly agree that the clump seems to be right down his alley, perhaps the stock is not ready but to do basic style and form a plan is to me what a workshop is about. Also I have very little idea of where to go with it at this stage.
The fig on the other hand is Quite overdue for a restyle and the time of year suits well. But this tree requires less creativity (I think) and perhaps with the aid of club members could be done anytime.

It is nice to get a vote each way, I wonder which one will "speak to" the artist.

cheers,
Gerard